The JCC Early Childhood Development Center Squirrel Hill

We are excited to pilot a Half-Day Program at the Early Childhood Development Center at the JCC Squirrel Hill for Preschool and PreK.

Hours: 8:30 am to 1:00 pm
Kosher lunch included with tuition.

Our program nurtures growth through language, reading, math, science, art, music, and play. We believe that discovery and play are a child’s most important work, preparing them for school and life.

For more information and to schedule a visit, please contact Katelyn Shirilla [email protected] or call 412-567-8422

If you’re interested in the JCC Early Childhood Development Center programs for other ages, and to schedule a visit (visits must be scheduled in advance), please contact:

Katelyn Shirilla

ECDC Director, Squirrel Hill

412-567-8422

Annabelle Rubinstein ECDC Squirrel Hill

Children grow and thrive in a program enriched with language, reading, math, science, art, music and fun. We believe that discovery and play are young children’s most important “work,” preparing them for the academic and life challenges ahead.

Explore ECDC program resources down below:

Our Approach

ECDC’s approach to early learning is inspired by the ideas and practices developed in Reggio Emilia, Italy, for the education of young children. This program—based on the principles of respect, responsibility and community through exploration and discovery in a supportive and enriching environment—resonates with the JCC mission. ECDC’s curriculum recognizes each child’s voice and strives to provide a beautiful environment, small groups for children to do their work, and access to a wide variety of learning materials.

Our Core Beliefs and Values

Children are constructivist learners
Early Childhood educators are professionals
Our families are our partners
Our environment is an inspiration for inquiry

Our Educators Make the Difference

Our talented and dedicated teaching team is committed to ensuring each child’s happiness, safety and development. It is our priority to employ experienced and creative educators who meet our high standards and reflect our value of lifelong learning. Our educators work together as a team to ensure children are engaged in daily, meaningful exploration with one another.

Physical education, music, the arts, Jewish culture and nature are integrated into a child’s day. Skilled JCC specialists offer additional enrichment opportunities for children to develop new skills in aquatics, sports and dance.

More That Makes ECDC Special

Values-based exploration of Jewish holidays and customs through an age and culturally appropriate lens in every classroom
Neighborhood and community-based outdoor exploration
Enrichment classes available, taught by skilled JCC specialists throughout the school day in dance, sports and aquatics

Age Groups and Schedules

ECDC is a year-round early learning center.
We operate from 8 am-5:30 pm every weekday.

Infants: ages 6 weeks+
Tots: ages 1- and 2-year-olds
Toddlers: 2- and 3-year-olds
Preschoolers: 3- and 4-year-olds
Pre-Kindergarten: 4- and 5-year-olds

Major funding for Early Childhood programming is provided by the Pittsburgh Jewish Pre-Kindergarten Educational Improvement Foundation of the Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh.

Looking to Join Our Team? Become an Educator Today!

Competitive Wages and Opportunity for Annual Raises
Paid Time Off
Health Insurance including Vision and Dental
401K Retirement Plan
Platinum Family Membership
Employee Discounts on Tuition and Classes
Paid Professional Development